Would you like to do something that makes a difference? Research is certainly one option you could consider. But what is social work and social care research and why is it important?
When it comes to research it’s all about being curious – and so it’s open to everyone at all ages and stages. Whether to support a change, solve a problem or improve practice and services – there is a path to follow to do social work and social care research in Northern Ireland.
In this episode in the ‘Care to chat’ 2025 podcast series, a panel of experts have a lively conversation about how social workers and social care practitioners can build and maintain an evidence base to support their work. It offers valuable insights into the world of social work and social care research, exploring its challenges and opportunities while providing actionable advice for those looking to venture into this field. In particular, why research is so important in improving practice and the value of those with lived experience getting involved.
Our host Dr Wendy Austin MBE speaks to Anne McGlade, Social Care Research Lead, Northern Ireland Social Care Council, an experienced academic and professional voices, Professor Paula McFadden, Professor of Social Work, School of Applied Social and Policy Sciences, Ulster University, Maria Flannagan, Senior Social Work Practitioner, Elderly Services – Older People and Primary Care, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and Lisa Morrison, Lisa Morrison Consultancy.
Ideal for students, practitioners, researchers or anyone interested in social work and social care, it looks at the importance of an evidence-based approach for people who access services and how evidence plays an important role in social work and social care practice, how evidenced-based practice can improve outcomes for services and communities and the resources and opportunities available to potential students and professionals to start their research journey.
Talking about her hopes for the future of social care and social work research Lisa Morrison said:
“My hope is really around how research can actually break down barriers and bring people together. Those of us who use services, with people working in services, that it can almost be a bridge to connecting people in a different way.”
Are you interested in social work or social care research?
You can be a practitioner or a service user to carry out research in Northern Ireland. Find out more about what opportunities are available on the dedicated research section of the Social Care Council website or email: Anne.McGlade@niscc.hscni.net.
The Social Care Council releases a new episode every fortnight, discussing current topics about social care and social work regulation in Northern Ireland. Download, subscribe and listen to the latest Social Care Council ‘Care to chat?’ podcast episode today here, or by searching ‘Care to chat’ in your podcast player.
Episode 9: Research into practice in social work and social care – (41 minutes)
For more information:
As the Care to chat podcasts are designed with the social care and social work workforce in mind, we would like to invite suggestions of topics that our listeners would be interested to hear covered. If you have questions, suggestions or feedback about the podcast, email: comms@niscc.hscni.net.